Mexico City. Air quality officials have extended a Phase I environmental contingency in the Mexico City metropolitan area due to high ozone levels, continuing vehicle restrictions and limitations on industrial activity. The measures are intended to reduce public exposure to pollution and minimize health risks, as well as lower overall emissions.
The Metropolitan Environmental Commission (CAMe) stated that atmospheric monitoring systems indicate unfavorable weather conditions for pollutant dispersal will persist, leading to continued increases in ozone concentration in the coming hours. The air and health index will remain in the “very poor” range.
At 3:00 p.m. Local time on Monday, February 16, 2026, a very high concentration of ozone was recorded at the Ajusco Medio monitoring station in the Tlalpan borough of Mexico City.
CAMe, the Secretariat of Environment and Natural Resources, and environmental authorities in Mexico City and the State of Mexico will continue to monitor air quality and weather conditions. An updated bulletin will be issued on Monday, February 16, 2026, at 8:00 p.m., or sooner if conditions change. The ongoing situation underscores the challenges of maintaining air quality in densely populated urban centers.
